Source: Loop Caribbean
Daniel Pruce has been sworn in as the British Virgin Islands’ new governor.
Justice Angelica Teelucksingh administered the oath of office at a ceremony this afternoon.
Pruce, who is a career public servant and diplomat, is the territory’s 15 governor.
In his first address as governor, Pruce said he was honoured to be given the responsibility and pledged to work with everyone interested in improving the lives of Virgin Islanders.
“My priority as Governor will be to deliver positive change for all the people of the Virgin Islands. So I look forward to working in close cooperation and partnership with all branches of the Government of the Virgin Islands –the executive, the legislature and the judiciary. I look forward to building close relations with all communities in the Territory and drawing from their insights as I set about my work,” he said.
“I will be a Governor who is accessible to everyone, including all branches of civil society, public servants and the private sector. And of course I will engage with the Government of the United Kingdom, representing the interests of these islands to the best of my ability. As Governor I look forward to collaborating with all those who have the best interests of the people of this Territory at heart, in positive and productive partnership.”
Pruce pledge to do his best to keep islanders safe in the face of rising crime, champion excellence in governance and support efforts to protect the BVI’s delicate environment.
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley welcomed Pruce to the island and expressed his willingness to work with the new governor in developing the British Virgin Islands.
Wheatley said Pruce’s appointment comes at a time when the United Kingdom and its overseas territories are working on a pathway to greater self-determination.
“A lot hinges on the relationship between the governor and premier in our political system. I will be a good partner as we carry out our constitutional role,” he said.
“We are hoping that by the end of your tenure, there will be a stronger public service and improved security across the territory. We are committed to working with you in these areas to help support their strengthening. We also look forward to working with you and your team on governance reforms. We share the sense of urgency in completing the remaining governance reforms.”
Wheatley made a plea to Pruce to hold off on his predecessor’s plan to increase the officeholders’ powers as it would affect how the territory’s elected officials work.
As the country looks to celebrate 74 years of democracy, Wheatley said: “The people of these Virgin Islands wish for the democratic governance of the territory to continue and their constitutional and democratic rights to be respected.”